According to DEM…
The proposed Burrillville Interconnection Project work crosses several streams that are important for freshwater fish populations, including the state's only coldwater species of fish, the brook trout. Native brook trout, a Species of Greatest Conservation Need in Rhode Island, are found in Mowry Brook and the Clear River, as well as in the Nipmuc River, a tributary of the Clear River.
Vegetation along these streams provides shade and cooling as well as bank stability. As such, vegetation removal near these streams has the potential to negatively impact freshwater fish, and especially this cold water species. Moreover, work occurring during the fall and early spring would be particularly detrimental as this is the spawning and hatching season for brook trout.
The Town of Burrillville recognizes that a pull-quote does not tell the whole story. In our point-of-view, this excerpt is indicative. While DEM was unable to draw definitive conclusions, the Town of Burrillville concludes that this power plant is not needed and is harmful to Burrillville, Rhode Island and surrounding areas. Follow these links to read the DEM advisories and drawn your own conclusions: [9-12-16 DEM Advisory Opinion] and [8-15-17 DEM Supplemental Advisory]
Town of Burrillville
105 Harrisville Main St.
Harrisville, RI 02830
401-568-4300